Guide clinic

How to choose your beach extension after an African safari

Not sure about which beach destination to combine with your African safari? Here, YZ’s Kirsten helps you to pick the beach extension that’s the best fit with your safari:

By Kirsten | 24 July 2024

Things to Do in Nairobi

Here, we discuss what there is to do in Nairobi, Kenya’s buzzing capital city, from the best museums and art galleries to the finest hotels, bars, and restaurants:

17 May 2024

Tips for Eco-Conscious and Sustainable Travel

Here we share some top tips on how to be an eco-conscious traveller in 2024.

16 May 2024

YZ’s Favourite Photographic Hides in Africa

A photographic hide gives you the unique opportunity to view wildlife, unbeknown to the animals, at an angle you don’t get from bumping around in a vehicle or trying to approach on foot.

By Emma | 16 April 2024

Where to Stay in Cape Town

If you are looking at visiting Cape Town for the first time, you will need to decide on which area you want to be in. All of the areas have their own pros and cons and there is no right or wrong place to stay!

09 April 2024

Your Digital Detox: Africa Lodges Without WiFi

For those who need to go full ‘cold turkey’ on the internet, our experts have provided their top picks where you can unplug and enjoy the Digital Detox.

11 March 2024

Top 10 Exclusive-Use Properties for Groups & Families

We list our top 10 favourite properties in Safari Africa, ranging from a show-stopping and epically luxurious five-star house to an activity-focused getaway pad.

07 March 2024

Q&A: Cape Town and Victoria Falls

We put safari specialist Wies to the test with a Q&A session, where he shares his best experiences and a few top secrets in Cape Town and Victoria Falls.

By Wies | 12 February 2024

10 Best Affordable Luxury Lodges in Africa

We have handpicked some of the top luxury safari lodges that will exceed your expectations on affordability.

By Julian | 24 January 2024

Top Things To Do in Arusha

Not just a gateway to the country’s northern safari areas, Arusha has a lot to offer travellers to Tanzania. Here YZ’s Matt discusses the top things to do in the city when you have some time to spare.

By Matt C | 22 January 2024

Unforgettable Camp Dining Experiences in Africa

Here we share some of the best dining experiences safari Africa has to offer, from private candle-lit dinners to surprise bush breakfasts in unforgettable destinations.

14 February 2023

Africa’s Most Instagramable Tubs: The YZ Top 27 Open-Air Baths

You might think it ludicrous to travel all the way to Africa for a bath but just take a look at these amazing outdoor tubs!

13 February 2023

What's hot for 2023

Here’s our guide to Safari Africa’s most exciting developments in 2023.

By Julian | 13 January 2023

The best activities to try in the Okavango Delta

Here’s YZ Wies’s guide to activities, besides a traditional game drive, that you could try in the Okavango Delta, looking at both water- and land-based adventures:

By Wies | 27 June 2022

Should you travel to Botswana’s Okavango Delta or Tanzania’s Serengeti for your safari?

Are you confused as to whether you should travel to the Okavango Delta or the Serengeti? Here, YZ expert Wies outlines the differences between the reserves, to help you decide which is better for your safari to Africa.

By Wies | 01 June 2022

Kenya's Top 10 Luxury Lodges

From the professional guiding and activities to the level of accommodation, a lot of thought goes into offering a top-end product. Here, we've put together our top 10 luxury lodges in Kenya.

By Julian | 15 March 2022

My Honeymoon On Safari In Zimbabwe

YZ expert Kirsten chose to spend her honeymoon on safari in Zimbabwe - here she describes her experience of sleeping on the most luxurious train in the world, witnessing the 'Smoke that Thunders' and then her adventure in Hwange National Park.

By Kirsten | 09 March 2022

Top most romantic sleep-outs and star beds

Here's our top best star beds and sleep-outs in Africa. With large beds and mosquito nets, you can experience a night under the stars without sacrificing any of your favourite luxuries.

By Kirsten | 14 February 2022

What to do in Sossusvlei: An Adventure Through The Namib Desert

During an amazing trip to Namibia, I spent three days in Sossusvlei, and although I might have only seen the odd oryx and jackal the visit was one of the highlights of my holiday, and I wouldn’t have wanted to have spent any less time there!

By James | 10 February 2022

Namibia and Botswana: A Trip for the Safari Connoisseur

Choosing the right safari destination can be a real challenge with so many amazing experiences on offer. For this reason many people opt to combine countries, cherry-picking the most unique experiences from each, to create a truly bespoke trip.

09 February 2022

Is This Namibia's Most Unique Camp?

Our Sales Director, James visited Namibia on an annual educational safari and explains why Wilderness Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is one of Africa’s finest properties, and with the services to match!

By James | 08 February 2022

A guide on where to stay in Kruger

Kruger is one of Africa’s most popular wildlife reserves. This first-class game-viewing region is home to one of the highest concentrations of big game across the continent. YZ co-founder Julian gives his thoughts on the park and where to stay:

11 October 2021

Client Review: Travelling During The Pandemic by Esther P. and Tracy C.

Read our client review of their trip during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find out how they managed COVID travel restrictions in Kenya and Zimbabwe.

06 October 2021

Top 10 Things to Do in Cape Town

Here we round up the best things to do in Cape Town, South Africa - from mountain biking to going on a culinary tour:

07 August 2021

Best lodges for a nice view in northern Tanzania

YZ expert Linda has just returned from an extensive safari to northern Tanzania. Here she picks out her favourite views:

29 April 2021

The most adventurous safari lodges in Kenya

Do you love exploring new places? Well, we may have the list of properties in Kenya that will tick all your boxes! Tapping into our Kenya experts’ knowledge, we've come up with the most activity-filled camps in the country – take a look here:

15 March 2021

The 5 best luxury lodges in Madikwe, South Africa

Here, we’ve picked a few of our favourite luxury properties in Madikwe Game Reserve.

18 February 2021

14 reasons why you should go to Kenya on your safari

Kenya is a stunning country, hosting vast landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and an amazing abundance of wildlife. Here’s our list of reasons why you should visit this incredible safari-focused destination:

28 January 2021

Madikwe or Sabi Sands… which one is right for you?

Here we compare the renowned Sabi Sands with malaria-free Madikwe to give you advice as to which game reserve you should visit during your luxury South Africa safari.

11 January 2021

The YZ 'Top 5' safaris in Africa

Choosing where to go on safari can be somewhat daunting! With so many first-class countries to consider, and so many different environments, species, sights, and activities to choose from, planning a trip can leave you feeling completely confused!

17 November 2020

The Serengeti & Great Migration

Stomping ground of the Great Migration and location of the highest predator concentrations in Africa, the Serengeti is one of those rare places that actually exceeds the hype! This Great Migration 12 part Blog Series gives you 'All you need to know'!

By Julian | 01 September 2020

Going alone to Africa: my solo holiday to Botswana and Zimbabwe

YZ’s Angela has just returned from a solo safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana. She explains why Africa is such a great destination for a solo holiday.

By Angela | 07 July 2020

Where to stay in Zanzibar on your safari holiday

Here’s our comprehensive holiday guide to where to stay on Zanzibar, including luxury lodges, boutique hotels, and barefoot resorts set on the best beaches in Tanzania.

By Lauren | 04 June 2020

East Africa or Southern Africa – where to safari?

Can’t decide whether you should go to East Africa or Southern Africa for your safari? Here we take a look at both areas, so you can work out which is the right destination for you:

14 April 2020

A Guide to Pemba Island

This blog was written by Charlotte, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team. Here's her guide to the island and where best to stay.

18 March 2020

Hiking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda: Buhoma to Nkuringo

YZ Sales Manager Emma embarked on a walking safari from Buhoma to Nkuringo – an incredible hike through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see the local wildlife, with a chance of spotting mountain gorillas.

By Emma | 20 February 2020

South Africa vs Botswana: how to choose the right safari destination

This blog was written by Antonina, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 5 years. Here, Antonina writes about what you should take into consideration when planning a safari to Southern Africa’s leading safari destinations, South Africa and Botswana.

11 February 2020

The Best Beaches in Cape Town

Here we’ve provided our guide to Cape Town’s best beaches, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day walking along South Africa’s beautiful coast or hoping to visit the top beach for observing penguins.

22 January 2020

A Kenya family safari with teens

Are you looking to go on a safari with teenagers? Well, Kenya is the perfect destination, with its Big Five wildlife, impressive amount of activities, & epic lodges that are fantastic for kids. Here’s our advice on what you can expect:

17 January 2020

Best Things to Do in La Digue

La Digue Island truly stole a piece of my heart. Its laidback lifestyle is so refreshing and relaxing when enjoying the tropical sun.

13 January 2020

Best Africa Safari Lodges for Solo Travellers

Our experts have divulged their favourite properties in Safari Africa that waive the single supplement. There has really never been a better time for a self-discovery adventure to Africa!

13 January 2020

Best 5 Diving Sites in Zanzibar

The depths of the Indian Ocean hide some of the world’s most unique creatures; it's a paradisiacal place for keen divers. Whether you’re on your 1000th dive or don’t know your fins from your mask, there is something for everyone in Zanzibar.

By Lauren | 10 January 2020

Top 6 Things to Do in Praslin

One of the most attractive qualities of the Seychelles is its one-of-a-kind beaches, and Praslin’s pristine beaches are some of the finest in the archipelago.

09 January 2020

Where to Take Your Snorkel in the Seychelles?

Spending a month in the Seychelles allowed me to experience a lot of what the islands and oceans had to offer. Below, I provide a quick summary of my favourite ‘snorkel spots’ for anyone who is lucky enough to travel to this paradise.

08 January 2020

Top Things to Do in Mahe

Mahé is the most developed and populated island in the Seychelles, and this brings with it an abundance of activities and places to visit.

07 January 2020

How to Visit Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor is one of the most sought-after properties in the world, and finding availability at this Kenyan hotel can be tricky. Here are some options that might bring you a little closer to living out your dream.

06 January 2020

A night under the stars at Alex Walker’s Serian fly camp

On a recent trip to Tanzania, Kelly and her partner Richard spent a night under the stars at Alex Walker’s Serian fly camp in the Serengeti. Here are her thoughts on the experience:

03 December 2019

Why travel to Kenya in the Green Season?

This blog was written by Jesse, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, Jesse writes about his trip to Kenya in which he explains the benefits of going on safari in green season.

02 December 2019

Hwange vs. Mana Pools – Zimbabwe’s top two safari destinations

YZ expert James visited Hwange and Mana Pools during his recent adventure to Zimbabwe. Here he compares the two national parks as safari destinations:

02 December 2019

The ultimate horse-riding safari: Offbeat Riding Safaris

This blog was written by Izzy, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, Izzy writes about her trip with Offbeat Riding Safaris in the Maasai Mara and describes what a horse-riding safari is like.

01 December 2019

The best walking safari experience: Zimbabwe vs. Zambia

Here’s YZ expert James’s guide to walking safaris in Zimbabwe and Zambia, in which he compares the experiences, the lodges, and the level of safety in each safari destination.

By James | 30 November 2019

Ruaha vs Nyerere: Visiting Tanzania’s southern circuit

Here we compare Ruaha and Nyerere as safari destinations within Tanzania's quieter southern circuit.

28 November 2019

Client review: The Clark couple’s holiday to Tanzania

YZ clients Nora Clark and her husband recently returned from a trip to Tanzania. They explored Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti, before relaxing along the shores of Zanzibar. Here’s their review of the trip:

27 November 2019

Fly camping in the spectacular Nyerere: a client review

Jenny Bolton-Clark and her husband journeyed to Tanzania’s southern Nyerere National Park, where they stayed at Sand Rivers and went fly camping. Here’s Jenny’s description of the 24-hour experience.

26 November 2019

Where to go for a Big Five safari in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

If you’re thinking of going to KwaZulu-Natal to visit the Battlefields in Zululand, why not consider also enjoying a safari in Phinda Game Reserve? YZ’s Will has returned from a trip to this quieter corner of South Africa:

10 October 2019

Client Review: South Africa Safari with the Frohlich Family

The Frohlich family travelled with Yellow Zebra to South Africa, where they spent some time experiencing the country’s culture in Johannesburg, its wonderful coast in Cape Town, and its famous wildlife in Kruger. Check out their review here:

10 October 2019

The Best Eco-lodges in Kenya

Here we detail our top 3 environmentally friendly properties in Kenya. These comprise a family-focused lodge in Laikipia, a holistic camp at the foothills of the Chyulu Hills, and an elephant haven in the heart of Samburu:

23 September 2019

Romancing in Kenya

YZ expert Angela headed out to Kenya and got to experience what the country is like for the true romantic! She and her husband went horse riding, enjoyed a glorious yoga session at sunrise, and completely fell in love with Kenya during their trip.

By Angela | 16 September 2019

The Perfect Camp for Adventure Seekers in Kenya

When YZ expert Wies ventured to Kenya recently, as well as experiencing fly camping, an incredible sleep-out, and flying in a biplane, he stayed at Laikipia Wilderness Camp, which very quickly became one of his favourite properties.

By Wies | 04 September 2019

Over $8,000 Per Night – Find Out Why This Lodge Is Worth The Expense

The sky-high rates of Botswana’s top lodges have been a contentious issue in the travel industry for years. As a number of properties cruise into the multi-thousands per night, YZ co-founder Julian explains why it’s worth paying those prices:

By Julian | 02 September 2019

Africa’s Best Beach Destinations: Zanzibar vs. Kenyan Coast

Here’s our guide to the best beach destinations in Safari Africa, where we compare Tanzania’s famous island Zanzibar with Kenya’s quieter coast, including the beaches of Mombasa, Diani, and Watamu.

29 August 2019

The Best Views in Kenya

YZ’s Lauren recently went in search of the best views in Kenya, ranging from Out of Africa’s celebrated cinematic scenery to the country's quiet northern corners. Here she lists her favourite lodges that overlook Kenya’s incredible landscapes:

By Lauren | 09 July 2019

The Winelands… It’s All in the Name – or Is It?

Although YZ expert Will is predominantly a beer-drinker, he travelled to South Africa’s famous Winelands to see what there is to do in Franschhoek if you don’t drink wine.

17 June 2019

Why You Should Consider Visiting Meru as Part of a Kenya Safari

This blog was written by Ro, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team. Here, she explains why you should consider visiting Meru as part of a Kenya safari holiday.

06 June 2019

Should You Travel to Tarangire in Green Season?

YZ Tanzania expert Matt went on a safari to Tarangire in April. Here he weighs up the pros and cons of visiting this national park during the green season.

By Matt C | 23 May 2019

We Lost Our Hearts in Zimbabwe!

YZ client Claudia B. just returned from a safari to Zimbabwe, where she witnessed one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, and went on a safari in Hwange National Park and Mana Pools.

20 May 2019

Advice on Which Horse-Riding Safari Is Best for You

This blog was written by Izzy, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, Izzy writes about her trip to Kenya and weighs up the different lodges that offer world class horse riding.

15 May 2019

Expert Advice - Being a Solo Traveller in Kenya

YZ expert Kirsten recently returned from an educational trip in which she travelled solo around Kenya. Here’s how she designed the perfect solo safari.

By Kirsten | 10 April 2019

Female Rangers Safeguarding the Last of the Mountain Gorillas

Kahambu Malilissa Solange is one of the 26 female rangers who have completed rigorous training in order to protect the last of the mountain gorillas. Here she answers a few questions about the opportunities and challenges she experiences.

01 February 2019

Journeying to Odzala-Kokoua National Park to See the Lowland Gorillas

Here’s YZ gorilla expert Linda’s experience of visiting the lowland gorillas in the Republic of the Congo’s extraordinary reserve, Odzala-Kokoua National Park.

31 January 2019

A Weekend Getaway in the Winelands: A Couples’ Retreat

This blog was written by Antonina, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 5 years. Here, Antonina writes about her experiences and recommendations for a weekend break in the Winelands:

03 January 2019

Activities on the Mighty Zambezi

Listed as the fourth longest river in Africa, the mighty Zambezi offers a variety of epic activities, as YZ Charlotte discovered on her safari to Zambia in October 2018.

03 December 2018

My Best Experiences of Victoria Falls

This blog was written by Antonina, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 5 years. Here, Antonina writes about her trip to Victoria Falls in which she gives her seven best experiences.

29 November 2018

The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary

YZ expert Wies travelled to northern Kenya to explore the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.

By Wies | 27 November 2018

The Top 5 Unique Trees in Botswana

Northern Botswana is home to some of the most striking and magnificent trees found in Africa! Our Botswana safari expert James H reveals the top 5 unique trees and where to find them.

26 November 2018

My Top Things to Do in Mauritius

Having just returned from exploring Mauritius, Shona has shared some highlights from her trip, including the top activities as well as her recommendations for local restaurants and luxury hotels to stay in...

06 November 2018

An Interview with Female Guides in Southern Africa

The best part of being on safari is without doubt the incredible wildlife! However, to find that exceptional encounter, you need a skilful guide who knows the area and everything within it, to help create that once-in-a-lifetime experience.

24 October 2018

Interviews With Female Guides in East Africa

Working on both sides of the Kenya–Tanzania border, Asilia Africa's and Serian's leading ladies have a wealth of inspiring stories, shared with us in this two-part series blog.

23 October 2018

Best Restaurants in Cape Town

Cape Town is fast becoming Africa’s finest destination for world-class restaurants. Nearby lies the Winelands, which contains the majority of the continent’s other excellent eateries!

03 October 2018

Visiting the Linyanti During Green Season

The green season marks the start of the rains in the Linyanti, but don't let that put you off, as the region is transformed from a dry and thirsty region to a lush emerald bounty bursting with colour.

By Lauren | 14 September 2018

Things to Do on Zanzibar

With its white, palm-lined beaches, Zanzibar is often seen as the idyllic beach getaway, especially after a safari. Here are our top things to do on and around Zanzibar.

By Wies | 10 September 2018

Safari Purist at Heart: Africa's Most Authentic Camps

YZ director and founder Julian has picked Safari Africa’s most authentic camps, from his absolute favourite lodges in Zambia to some exquisitely intimate camps in Tanzania.

By Julian | 04 September 2018

Client Review: Deborah's Family Safari in Zambia

Deborah travelled with Yellow Zebra to Zambia for a family safari. Among the favourite properties she and her family visited were Nsolo Camp, Mchenja Bush Camp and Chongwe River Camp.

03 September 2018

Top 5 Hiking and Climbing Adventures in Tanzania

As a whole, Tanzania is most famous for its incredible national parks, game reserves and beaches. However, there is also plenty for the true adventurer or thrill seeker looking to do something just that little bit different from the norm!